The traditional balcony turns into refuge for people staying at home

The COVID-19 pandemic is teaching everyone how to appreciate those ‘things’ they may have taken so much forgranted in the rushed life they were leading. The closed timber balcony which traditionally line the streets of Maltese villages and towns is one such ‘thing’.

With many trying to stay indoors to protect themselves against the spread of this virus, the traditional balcony has become the refuge ‘room’ within people’s homes. Known to all as ‘il-gallarija’, this simple structure gives one a strong sense of being outside yet still indoors.

This medium is today serving its daily purpose once again. No, not for hanging clothes to dry out. The gallarija is allowing neighbours to  while away their time chatting to each other across the street, it is enabling families to stay connected with their loved ones who drop by to say a quick hi from a distance. Who would have ever imagined that these iconic balconies would serve such a useful purpose once again?

The traditional balcony can be traced back to ancient Egypt. It was used to give access to external views while ensuring privacy and security. Initially, balconies were incorporated into royal palaces for rulers to appear in public. Eventually, they were incorporated into wealthy private residences. Arab and Muslim beliefs are thought to have brought about the need for closed balconies. However, the Mediterranean climate gave them more usefulness.

The first closed timber balcony in Malta was that built at the Grand Master’s Palace in Valletta, dating back to the 17th Century. Later on, they became more affordable and common in Maltese architecture. Through their abundance of colours, materials, textures and decorative motifs, they enrich the visual aspect of Malta’s streets. These small pieces of architecture influenced local culture greatly, extending their use to traditional village feasts and being incorporated into literature.

There are various types of Maltese closed wooden balconies; from those built in the 17th century to the 20th-century designs. These range from small, simple and standard to more elaborate, peculiar or combined balconies. The ‘panew’ is the most decorative part of each balcony and it indicates the period in which it was built. Craftmanship is a very important element; including traditional jointing, dowels, proportions and design. The traditional materials used are usually red deal (ta’ l-ahmar) and Iroko, which is more resilient to the elements.

Over the past years, the Planning Authority has been insisting that any replacements should be done ‘like with like’ and that any design should be in harmony with the property and its streetscape to safeguard this element of Maltese culture.

The authority has initiated various schemes in order to conserve this traditional element within Urban Conservation Areas and scheduled properties. This, to provide an impetus for the regeneration of the urban fabric, whilst also safeguarding traditional craftsmanship.

This frequently occurring element within traditional Maltese architecture has caught the attention of many throughout history and to this day. The ‘gallariji’ contribute to the Maltese identity and are now an integral part of the traditional streetscape.

These traditional balconies are also valuable in this day and age. Apart from their historic and cultural value, they have a strong place in society’s everyday use and contribute to the country’s touristic and educational potential. The aesthetic value is combined with more practical everyday uses, such as providing much needed natural light into our houses, as well as serve as a climate control for buildings. Balconies still have a lot of value to offer and are very much incorporated into the everyday Maltese way of life, as we are discovering more than ever, once again.

More information about the Authority’s services are available at www.pa.org.mt.